Bow Valley Musician Tyler Wood Releases New Single Ahead of Debut Album

When Banff musician Tyler Wood released his new single You’re Doing Okay on Jan. 12, it marked more than just a new track landing on streaming platforms. The release is the first public step toward Launchpad, Wood’s debut album, expected in September.

“This single is a cozy and uplifting start. It was a letter of reassurance to myself at a very low time in my life. I realized however that this is the conversation most people fail to have with themselves,” said Wood.

Musically, “You’re Doing Okay” blends soul and R&B influences with what Wood describes as “a country bow on top,” offering an accessible entry point into a larger body of work that is shaped by grief, growth and place.

Launchpad is dedicated to Wood’s mother, who died suddenly in September 2024. Two songs on the album are written for her, with another one dedicated to his father. The record unfolds chronologically, tracing the past several years of growth within Wood’s life.

“The title comes from what my mum had been telling me during her final years,” said Wood. “‘Darling, this year is going to be your launchpad.’”

Wood, who balances music with his day job as a Bow Valley bus driver, said the region has influenced him less through scenery and more through pace.

“The Bow Valley has affected me more on a personal level,” said Wood. “It showed me who I am and who I’m not. Primarily, because it allows you to grow at your own pace. The timing of your life has permission to move slower here.”

That grounding carried into a recent milestone, when Wood and his band won the 13th annual Tommy’s Unplugged Battle of the Bands at Tommy’s Neighbourhood Pub. While the victory brought added attention, Wood said it did not drive the album’s momentum.

“It was definitely an added bonus! I was very happy and fortunate to win Tommy’s Unplugged with the help of my band,” said Wood. However, “My momentum and drive to produce this album would have been unshaken even if we were unsuccessful.”

For Wood, the project is ultimately about honesty, something he hopes resonates with listeners across the Bow Valley.

“In part, this album is the story of a personal journey I’ve been on,” said Wood. “The final product will be a testament to reaching my destination, knowing who I am, what I’m made of, and choosing to be more forgiving when life makes the trip harder.”

You’re Doing Okay is now available on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube. Recording for Launchpad begins later this month, with three additional singles set to be released before summer.

In addition to streaming, Wood has several January performances scheduled in the Bow Valley, including appearances at SnowDays in Banff this Saturday and Sunday. He is also set to perform Jan. 23 and 24 at Tavern 1883 in Canmore.

Updates will be shared through Wood’s social media, and he encourages residents to follow his musical journey at @tylercrwood.